Hounds for Pounds is being staged in the North East as part of a fundraising drive for BBC Children in Need. Tomorrow volunteers and fundraisers from HM Revenue and Customs are taking part in the sponsored dog walk at Tynemouth Long Sands.

A spokesman said: “Anyone who owns or can borrow a dog can take part in this fun event – even if you don’t work for HMRC.

“We are meeting at 12pm on the beach at St George’s Church end and at 12.30 will walk the length of the beach, ending up at Crusoe’s cafe.

“The walk will take 45 minutes and participants will then be free to party on the beach with their dogs or have a hot drink and some food.

“Very excitingly, there will be a visit from Pudsey, who wants to meet as many dogs and humans as possible. Pudsey and his helpers will have collection buckets to relieve you of all your loose change for this very wort hwhile charity, so bring the family along – and your camera – for some great photo opportunities.”